Chamarel Waterfall | Chamarel

Information

Landmark: Chamarel Waterfall
City: Chamarel
Country: Mauritius
Continent: Africa

Chamarel Waterfall, Chamarel, Mauritius, Africa

Chamarel Waterfall

Chamarel Waterfall is the highest single-drop waterfall in Mauritius, plunging approximately 100 meters (272 ft) into a lush volcanic basin. It is located within the private Chamarel Seven Coloured Earth Geopark in the southwest of the island.

Visual Characteristics

The waterfall is formed by the St. Denis River and is characterized by its dramatic vertical drop over a basalt cliff. The surrounding landscape consists of dense, primary tropical forest and ancient volcanic rock formations. The falls can be viewed from two distinct levels: an upper observation deck providing a panoramic view of the drop and the gorge, and a lower trail leading closer to the base.

Location & Access Logistics

Address: H94P+P86, Chamarel, Mauritius.

Access: Entry is via the main gate of the Seven Coloured Earth Geopark. A single entrance ticket covers both the waterfall and the Seven Coloured Earth.

Transport: Best reached by private vehicle or taxi. The climb to Chamarel involves steep, winding roads. Most organized "South Tours" include this site as a primary stop.

Parking: Dedicated parking areas are available near the observation decks.

Geological Origin

The waterfall flows over basalt layers dating back millions of years. The geology of the area is defined by two different ages of lava flows: the Breuil series (intermediate) and the Chamarel series (late), which created the sharp escarpment over which the water cascades.

Key Highlights & Activities

Observation Decks: Two primary viewpoints offering different perspectives of the falls and the verdant canyon.

Photography: One of the most iconic landscape photography spots in Mauritius, particularly impressive after heavy rainfall when the water volume increases.

Hiking: A trail allows for a more immersive experience into the gorge toward the base of the falls.

Wildlife: The surrounding forest is a habitat for the Mauritian fruit bat and various endemic bird species.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Hours: Daily from 08:30 to 17:00.

Facilities: Restrooms and a coffee shop/souvenir store are located within the Geopark near the Seven Coloured Earth section (a short drive from the waterfall viewpoint).

Connectivity: 4G coverage is generally available but can be intermittent in the deep gorge areas.

Best Time to Visit

The waterfall is most spectacular during the summer months (December to April) following rain, which ensures a powerful flow. Arriving early (before 10:00 AM) is recommended to avoid large tour groups and to benefit from the best lighting for photography.